Targeted pollutant release in microorganisms

ABSTRACT

A method of using microorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid by exposing microorganisms to a fluid containing a pollutant, the microorganisms uptake the pollutant, then the microorganisms are exposed to a condition in order to stimulate the microorganisms to release the pollutant. Furthermore, the microorganisms are harvested and used as a foodstuff for human and animal consumption.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/715,485 filed on Aug. 7, 2018, the entirety of whichis incorporated herein fully by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to a method of using microorganisms toremove a pollutant from a fluid. In one arrangement, the disclosurerelates to a method of using microorganisms to remove a pollutant from afluid by exposing microorganisms to a fluid containing a pollutant, themicroorganisms uptake the pollutant, then the microorganisms are exposedto a condition in order to stimulate the microorganisms to release thepollutant. Additionally, the disclosure relates to a method ofharvesting the microorganisms and using the microorganisms as afoodstuff for human and animal consumption, a fertilizer, a bioplastic,and/or a biofuel.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

There is a rising demand for improvements in wastewater treatmenttechnology due to the decreasing availability of freshwater resourcesand requirements for higher quality water treatment processes acrossmany industrial sectors. In nature phosphorous is one of the mainlimiting factors for algal biomass production. Thus, the efficientphosphorous removal from wastewater is vital to reduce the amount ofpollutants from entering aqueous environments and thereby preventingalgal bloom and eutrophication of water. On the other hand, theincreased cost of essential plant nutrients requires a shift towardsresource recovery.

The treatment of wastewaters is a major problem today. Currently,municipal and industrial treatment facilities do not have an effectivetechnology for reducing pollutants in their discharged effluents,especially phosphorous. Different states have implemented or arecurrently implementing various phosphorous discharge limits formunicipal and industrial wastewater effluents in compliance with the USEPA National Nutrient Strategy (US EPA, 2008a).

Existing technologies are available for pollutant removal from municipaland industrial wastewaters. However, those technologies are notcost-effective or environmentally friendly. For example, thechemical-based method for pollutant removal is expensive due to thelarge amount of chemicals (e.g., aluminum and magnesium salts) used.Additionally, the chemical removal of pollutants from wastewaters willresult in metal-containing sludge which results in a disposal problem.

As one example, phosphorous is a pollutant that is extremely difficultto remove from wastewaters. One method of phosphorous removal is to usebacteria called polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAO) through anenhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) process. In the EBPRprocess, the first step is anaerobic fermentation in which PAOsassimilate organic compounds in wastewater (such as volatile fattyacids) into storage products while obtaining energy by releasingphosphorous from the stored polyphosphates. In the second aerobicfermentation stage, PAOs oxidize the stored products to provide energywhile accumulating large quantities of polyphosphate within their cells.The phosphorus fraction of the biomass in EBPR can be as high as 5-7%.The phosphorus-rich biomass can be separated from the treated water,thus removing the phosphorus from the wastewater. While EBPR process caneffectively remove phosphorous from wastewater, the process has severaldisadvantages such as undesirable high phosphorous strength in effluent,a requirement of careful operation and monitoring of the system,recycling a large amount of wastewater within the system, and highenergy use.

Some emerging technologies such as Bardenpho are also being implementedat wastewater treatment plants. In the Bardenpho process, a series ofanaerobic-anoxic-aerobic are implemented before the conventionalactivated sludge process. This process, however, requires extra spaceand tanks for implementing the sequential process, and operation of thesequential tanks with different oxygenation levels is also complicated.

Furthermore, algal wastewater treatment has not been possible in thepast due to a low pollutant removal rate and the massive footprintrequired in order to grow algae in traditional systems. Therefore, thereis a need for a process that can quickly, efficiently and costeffectively remove a pollutant from a fluid.

For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below whichwill become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading andunderstanding the specification, there is a need in the art for animproved method of removing a pollutant from a fluid.

Thus it is a primary object of the disclosure to provide a method ofusing microorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid that isefficient.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid that is simple indesign.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid that is inexpensive.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid, harvesting themicroorganisms, and using the microorganisms as a foodstuff for humanconsumption.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid, harvesting themicroorganisms, and using the microorganisms as a foodstuff for animalconsumption.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid that is capable ofmeeting current pollutant discharge limits.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid that has a smallerfootprint than other biological systems.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to efficiently and effectively remove a pollutant fromeffluent.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid that has a highpollutant removal rate.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid, harvesting themicroorganisms, and using the microorganisms as a fertilizer.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid, harvesting themicroorganisms, and using the microorganisms as a bioplastic.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a method of usingmicroorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid, harvesting themicroorganisms, and using the microorganisms as a biofuel.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the presentdisclosure will become apparent from the specification and claims.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates to a method of using microorganisms, including,but not limited to, bacteria, fungi, and/or algae, to remove a pollutantfrom a fluid. Furthermore, the disclosure relates to a method of usingmicroorganisms, including, but not limited to, bacteria, fungi, and/oralgae, to remove a pollutant from a fluid utilizing a microorganismgrowing apparatus. Furthermore, the disclosure relates to a method ofusing microorganisms to remove a pollutant from a fluid utilizing amicroorganism growing apparatus wherein the microorganisms are exposedto a first fluid containing a pollutant wherein the microorganisms areexposed to a first condition, exposing the microorganisms to light andair (which may be a CO2-rich gaseous phase or an O2-rich gaseous phase,among other compositions), and then exposing the microorganisms to asecond fluid wherein the microorganisms are exposed to a secondcondition and the microorganisms are stimulated to release thepollutant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a system which utilizesmicroorganisms for removing a pollutant from a fluid;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the system illustrated in FIG. 1further comprising a motor;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the system illustrated in FIG. 1further comprising a motor and a plurality of drive shafts;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a system which utilizesmicroorganisms for removing a pollutant from a fluid wherein the systemcomprises two reservoirs;

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of a microorganism growing apparatusaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of a microorganism growing apparatusaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a trough system according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 8 depicts a flow chart illustrating the methodology generallyassociated with harvesting of microorganisms such as algae;

FIG. 9 depicts a top view of a microorganism, such as algae, being grownon a moving belt;

FIG. 10 depicts a partial cutaway perspective view of a microorganismgrowing apparatus according to one embodiment;

FIG. 11 depicts a schematic front view of the microorganism growingapparatus illustrated in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 depicts a top view of a microorganism being grown on a varietyof materials which may be used to form the at least one moving belt;

FIG. 13 depicts a bar chart of harvesting frequencies for an algalstrain according to one embodiment;

FIG. 14 depicts a partial cutaway perspective view of the microorganismgrowing apparatus illustrated in FIG. 10, shown with grow lights and gasinput;

FIG. 15 depicts a partial exploded view of the microorganism growingapparatus shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 16 depicts a perspective view of a system having a plurality ofassociated microorganism growing apparatuses and a trough systemaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 17 depicts a perspective view of a microorganism growing apparatusas illustrated in FIG. 19;

FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of a trough system as illustrated inFIG. 19;

FIG. 19 depicts a perspective view of a system having a plurality ofassociated microorganism growing apparatuses and a trough systemaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 20 depicts a perspective view of a microorganism growing apparatusas illustrated in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of a system having associatedmicroorganism growing apparatuses and a trough system according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of the system having associatedmicroorganism growing apparatuses as illustrated in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 depicts a perspective view of the trough system illustrated inFIG. 21;

FIG. 24 depicts a perspective view of a microorganism growing apparatusshown with a mechanized harvesting system according to one embodiment;

FIG. 25 depicts a perspective view of a microorganism growing apparatusaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 26 depicts a perspective view of a system according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 27 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 28 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 29 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 30 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 31 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 32 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 33 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 34 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 35 depicts a flow chart illustrating a system which utilizes amicroorganism growing apparatus to remove a pollutant from a fluidaccording to an alternate embodiment;

FIG. 36 depicts a perspective view of a system which utilizesmicroorganisms for removing a pollutant from a fluid according to oneembodiment; wherein the system comprises a first reservoir for pollutantuptake and a second reservoir for release of the pollutant;

FIG. 37 depicts a perspective view of a system which utilizesmicroorganisms for removing a pollutant from a fluid according to oneembodiment; wherein the system comprises four reservoirs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description of the embodiments, reference ismade to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in whichis shown by way of illustration specific preferred embodiments in whichthe disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described insufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice thedisclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may beutilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosures.The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in alimiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined onlyby the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents towhich such claims are entitled.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top,bottom, front, back, end and sides are referenced according to the viewspresented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are usedonly for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used aslimitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination ofobjects may change without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Targeted Pollutant Release in Microorganisms System

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a system or method of usingmicroorganisms 84 such as bacteria, algae 52, and the like to remove apollutant 56 from a fluid 58 (or simply “system” 10) is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to be utilized inassociation with any type of microorganism growing apparatus 12. In onearrangement, as shown, the system 10 comprises a microorganism growingapparatus 12, microorganisms 84, and a first fluid 58 (or simply “afluid” 58) wherein the microorganisms 84 remove a pollutant 56 from thefluid 58.

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises the stepsof: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64; filling the second reservoir 44 with a second fluid 60; controllingthe second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44 to have a secondcondition 66; growing microorganisms 84 using the microorganism growingapparatus 12; exposing the microorganisms 84 to the first fluid 58within the first reservoir 42 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposedto the first condition 64 and the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant56 from the first fluid 58; exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50and air 48; and exposing the microorganisms 84 to the second fluid 60within the second reservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposedto the second condition 66 and the microorganisms 84 are stimulated torelease the pollutant 56. Furthermore, this arrangement of the system 10may also comprise the steps of: providing a third reservoir 46; filingthe third reservoir 46 with a third fluid 62; controlling the thirdfluid 62 within the third reservoir 46 to have a third condition 68; andsubmerging a portion of the microorganisms 84 within the third fluid 62of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposing this portion of themicroorganisms 84 to the third condition 68. Any number of reservoirs42/44/46 are hereby contemplated for use.

In another arrangement, the system 10 comprises the steps of: providinga microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42, asecond reservoir 44, and at least one moving belt 36; filling the firstreservoir 42 with a first fluid 58 that has a high concentration of thepollutant 56; controlling the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir42 to have a first condition 64; filling the second reservoir 44 with asecond fluid 60; controlling the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44 to have a second condition 66; moving the at least one belt36 between a first submerged position 70, wherein a portion of the atleast one belt 36 is submerged within the first fluid 58 held within thefirst reservoir 42, and an exposed position 76, wherein a portion of theat least one belt 36 is not submerged within the first fluid 58 heldwithin the first reservoir 42; moving the portion of the at least onebelt 36 to the exposed position wherein this portion of the at least onebelt 36 is exposed to air 48 and light 50; growing microorganisms 84 onthe at least one belt 36 as the at least one belt 36 moves through themicroorganism growing apparatus 12, wherein the microorganisms 84consume the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58 held within the firstreservoir 42 during the growing process; moving the at least one belt 36to a second submerged position 72, wherein a portion of the at least onebelt 36 is submerged within the second fluid 60 of the second reservoir44 thereby exposing this portion of the at least one belt 36 to thesecond condition 66 thereby stimulating the microorganisms 84 containedon this portion of the belt 36 to release the pollutant 56.Additionally, this arrangement of the system 10 may further comprise thesteps of: providing a third reservoir 46; filling the third reservoir 46with a third fluid 62; controlling the third fluid 62 within the thirdreservoir 46 to have a third condition 68; and submerging a portion ofthe microorganisms 84 within the third fluid 62 of the third reservoir46 thereby exposing this portion of the microorganisms 84 to the thirdcondition 68.

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises the stepsof: providing microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64; filing the second reservoir 44 with a second fluid 60; controllingthe second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44 to have a secondcondition 66; growing an algae biofilm 54 using the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12; moving the algae biofilm 54 to a first submergedposition 70 such that a portion of the algae biofilm 54 is submergedwithin the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42 exposingthe algae biofilm 54 to the first condition 64 wherein the algae 52uptakes the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58 held within the firstreservoir 42; moving the algae biofilm 54 such that it is exposed to air48 and light 50; following the uptake of the pollutant 56, moving thealgae biofilm 54 to a second submerged position 72 such that a portionof the algae biofilm 54 is submerged within the second fluid 60 heldwithin the second reservoir 44 exposing the algae biofilm 54 to thesecond condition 66 and stimulating the algae biofilm 54 to release thepollutant 56. Furthermore, this arrangement of the system 10 may alsocomprise the steps of: providing a third reservoir 46; filling the thirdreservoir 46 with a third fluid 62; controlling the third fluid 62within the third reservoir 46 to have a third condition 68; and movingthe algae biofilm 54 to a third submerged position 74 such that aportion of the algae biofilm 54 is submerged within the third fluid 62of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposing this portion of the algaebiofilm 54 to the third condition 68.

In another arrangement, the system 10 comprises the steps of: providinga microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42, asecond reservoir 44, and at least one moving belt 36; filling the firstreservoir 42 with a first fluid 58 that has a high concentration of thepollutant 56; controlling the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir42 to have a first condition 64; filling the second reservoir 44 with asecond fluid 60; controlling the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44 to have a second condition 66; moving the at least one belt36 between a first submerged position 70, wherein a portion of the atleast one belt 36 is submerged within the first fluid 58 held within thefirst reservoir 42, and an exposed position 76, wherein a portion of theat least one belt 36 is not submerged within the first fluid 58 heldwithin the first reservoir 42; moving the portion of the at least onebelt 36 to the exposed position wherein this portion of the at least onebelt 36 is exposed to air 48 and light 50; growing an algae biofilm 54on the at least one belt 36 as the at least one belt 36 moves throughthe microorganism growing apparatus 12, wherein the algae 52 consumesthe pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir42 during the growing process; moving the at least one belt 36 to asecond submerged position 72, wherein a portion of the at least one belt36 is submerged within the second fluid 60 of the second reservoir 44thereby exposing this portion of the at least one belt 36 to the secondcondition 66 thereby stimulating the algae 52 contained on this portionof the belt 36 to release the pollutant 56. Additionally, thisarrangement of the system 10 may further comprise the steps of:providing a third reservoir 46; filling the third reservoir 46 with athird fluid 62; controlling the third fluid 62 within the thirdreservoir 46 to have a third condition 68; and submerging a portion ofthe algae biofilm 54 within the third fluid 62 of the third reservoir 46thereby exposing this portion of the algae biofilm 54 to the thirdcondition 68.

Additionally, in another arrangement, the system 10 comprises the stepsof: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64; allowing the second reservoir 44 to not contain a fluid either bynot filling the second reservoir 44 with a fluid or draining the secondreservoir 44 of the fluid contained therein; controlling the secondreservoir 44 to have a second condition 66; growing microorganisms 84using the microorganism growing apparatus 12; exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the first condition 64 andthe microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58;exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50 and air 48; and exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second reservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms84 are exposed to the second condition 66 and the microorganisms 84 arestimulated to release the pollutant 56. Furthermore, this arrangement ofthe system 10 may also comprise the steps of: providing a thirdreservoir 46 wherein the third reservoir 46 may be filled with a fluid62 and the fluid 62 is controlled to have a third condition 68 and aportion of the microorganisms 84 are submerged within the fluid 62 ofthe third reservoir 46 thereby exposing this portion of themicroorganisms 84 to the third condition 68. Any number of reservoirs42/44/46/88 are hereby contemplated for use and any of the reservoirs42/44/46/88 may be filled with a fluid 58/60/62 or left dry/empty andthen manipulated to have a condition 64/66/68 utilized to stimulate themicroorganisms 84.

In another arrangement of the system 10 the system 10 comprises thesteps of: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64; allowing the second reservoir 44 to not contain a fluid either bynot filling the second reservoir 44 with a fluid or draining the secondreservoir 44 of the fluid contained therein; controlling the secondreservoir 44 to have a second condition 66; growing microorganisms 84using the microorganism growing apparatus 12; exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the first condition 64 andthe microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58;exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50 and air 48; and exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second reservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms84 are exposed to the second condition 66; providing a third reservoir46 wherein the third reservoir 46 is not filled with a fluid, butinstead the third reservoir 46 is dry/empty and is controlled to have athird condition 68 and the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the thirdcondition 68. Any number of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 are herebycontemplated for use and any of the reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be filledwith a fluid, left dry/empty, or drained of the fluid to becomedry/empty and then manipulated to have a condition 64/66/68 utilized tostimulate the microorganisms 84.

Microorganisms

The system 10 is capable of using microorganisms 84 to remove apollutant 56 from a fluid 58. Any type of microorganism 84 may beutilized in the system 10 without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. In one arrangement, as one example, the microorganisms 84may be bacteria or algae 52. Additionally, in one arrangement, themicroorganisms 84 may be fungi.

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 uses microorganisms 84to remove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 by providing microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir44, filling the first reservoir 42 with a first fluid 58 that contains apollutant 56, controlling the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir42 to have a first condition 64, filling the second reservoir 44 with asecond fluid 60, controlling the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44 to have a second condition 66, growing the microorganisms84 using the microorganism growing apparatus 12, exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42wherein the microorganisms 84 is exposed to the first condition 64 andthe microorganisms 84 uptakes the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58,exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50 and air 48, and exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44wherein the microorganisms 84 is exposed to the second condition 66 andthe microorganisms 84 is stimulated to release the pollutant 56.

Algae

The system 10 is capable of using algae 52 as the microorganism 84 toremove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 by providing a microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir44, filling the first reservoir 42 with a first fluid 58 that contains apollutant 56, controlling the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir42 to have a first condition 64, filling the second reservoir 44 with asecond fluid 60, controlling the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44 to have a second condition 66, growing algae 52 using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12, exposing the algae 52 to the firstfluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 wherein the algae 52 is exposedto the first condition 64 and the algae 52 uptakes the pollutant 56 fromthe first fluid 58, exposing the algae 52 to light 50 and air 48, andexposing the algae 52 to the second fluid 60 within the second reservoir44 wherein the algae 52 is exposed to the second condition 66 and thealgae 52 is stimulated to release the pollutant 56.

Any species or type of algae 52 may be utilized in the system 10 withoutdeparting from the scope of the disclosure. In one arrangement, as oneexample, the algae 52 may be Chlorella algae 78 or Spirulina algae 80.Additionally, in one arrangement, the algae 52 may be of the typeregarded as Generally Regarded As Safe.

As stated above, any type of algae 52 may be utilized in the system 10.In one arrangement, as one example, biofilm based algae 54 (“an algaebiofilm” 54) may be utilized. Alternatively, in another arrangement, asone example, suspended algal culture systems may also be utilizedwithout departing from the scope of the disclosure.

In one arrangement, as one example, the algae 52 contains extracellularpolymeric substances which enhance absorption of pollutants 56,including, but not limited to, phosphorous, by the algae 52.Additionally, in one arrangement, the algae 52 contains extracellularpolymeric substances which protect the algae 52 from toxic effects ofhigh concentrations of pollutants 56, such as phosphorous.

Pollutant

The system 10 provides a method of using microorganisms 84 to remove apollutant 56 from a fluid 58. Any type of pollutant 56 may be removedfrom the fluid 58 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Inone arrangement, as one example, the pollutant 56 is Nitrogen (N),Phosphorous (P), Potassium (K), Carbon (C), toxic metals, salts,pharmaceuticals, or hormones. In another arrangement, the pollutant 56is a PPCPs (Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products) wherein thepollutant 56 is any type of PPCPs without departing from the scope ofthe disclosure. For example, the pollutant 56 may be one or more of thefollowing PPCPs: caffeine, Carbamazepine, Gemfribrozil, Ibuprofen,Naproxen, Sulfamethoxazole, Triclosan, and the like.

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 provides a method ofusing microorganisms 84 to remove phosphorous from a fluid 58, the stepscomprising: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having afirst reservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44, filling the firstreservoir 42 with a first fluid 58 that contains phosphorous,controlling the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have afirst condition 64, filling the second reservoir 44 with a second fluid60, controlling the second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44 tohave a second condition 66, growing microorganisms 84 using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12, exposing the microorganisms 84 tothe first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 wherein themicroorganisms 84 is exposed to the first condition 64 and themicroorganisms 84 uptakes the phosphorous from the first fluid 58,exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50 and air 48, and exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44wherein the microorganisms 84 is exposed to the second condition 66 andthe microorganisms 84 is stimulated to release the phosphorous.

Microorganism Growing Apparatus

As provided above, system 10 may utilize a microorganism growingapparatus 12. Microorganism growing apparatus 12 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to grow any type ofmicroorganism 84 including, but not limited to, algae 52. Themicroorganism growing apparatus 12 is configured to grow microorganisms84 in any form without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Inone arrangement, as one example, the microorganism growing apparatus 12is configured to grow algae 52 in a biofilm 54. In one arrangement, asone example, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 is configured togrow algae 52 in a biofilm 54 wherein the algae biofilm 54 is grown onthe at least one moving belt 36. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, for purposes of clarity, the microorganism growing apparatus 12has a front 14, a back 16, opposing sides 18, a top 20, and a bottom 22.In the arrangement shown, as one example, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 is symmetrical, or generally symmetrical, or operativelysymmetrical, and for this reason, unless specified otherwise,description of one side 18 of the microorganism growing apparatus 12shall apply to both sides 18 of the microorganism growing apparatus 12which is separated by an imaginary centerline that extends down theapproximate top-to-bottom center of the microorganism growing apparatus12. Further description of a microorganism growing apparatus can befound in U.S. Pat. No. 9,932,549, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 is formed of a frame 24, a motor 26, at least one driveshaft 28, a gear system 30, a plurality of rollers 32, a mechanizedharvesting system 34, which comprises at least one moving belt 36, aharvesting blade 38, a harvesting reservoir 40. Also, the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 is formed of a first reservoir 42, a first fluid58, a CO2-rich gaseous phase 48 (also referred to as “air” throughoutthe disclosure), and light 50 (also referred to as a “sunlight capture”part throughout the disclosure). Furthermore, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 may also include additional components, such as, a pump 82.Any type or form of microorganism growing apparatus 12 may be utilizedin the system 10, including, but not limited to, horizontal stationarysheets with microorganisms 84 growing on the surface, verticalstationary sheets with microorganisms 84 growing on the surface,rotating drums with microorganisms 84 growing on the surface, smallfloating beads and/or solid media with microorganisms 84 growing ontheir surface without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

In one arrangement, as shown, the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a plurality of reservoirs 42/44/46/88. For example, in onearrangement, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44. In another arrangement, asshown, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises a firstreservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, and a third reservoir 46. Any typeor form of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be utilized in the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 without departing from the scope of the disclosure.Any number of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be utilized in themicroorganism growing apparatus 12 without departing from the scope ofthe disclosure.

Frame

As provided above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises aframe 24, among other components. Frame 24 is formed of any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to support the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 and allow the microorganism growing apparatus 12 toremain in an upright position in order to operate. In one arrangement,frame is square or rectangular in shape. However, any other shape orconfiguration is hereby contemplated for use. The frame 24 may beconfigured to be any size without departing from the disclosure. Theframe 24 may be manufactured to be small enough to fit on a shelf forresearch purposes and the like or large enough to serve a largemetropolitan city. Furthermore, frame 24 may be formed of any materialincluding, but not limited to, plastic, metal, non-metal material, andPVC.

Frame 24 provides the structure of the microorganism growing apparatus12. In one arrangement, as shown, the at least one moving belt 36 issupported by frame 24. In one arrangement, the at least one drive shaft28 is coupled with the frame 24 wherein the at least one drive shaft 28supports and actuates the at least one moving belt 36. In onearrangement, as one example, the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a gear system 30 wherein the gear system 30 is coupled withthe at least one drive shaft 28, a plurality of rollers 32 wherein theplurality of rollers 32 is coupled with the frame 24 which guides the atleast one moving belt 36.

Reservoir

As stated above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises atleast one reservoir 42/44/46, among other components. Reservoir 42/44/46is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured tosupport the microorganism growing apparatus 12 and contain a fluid58/60/62. In one arrangement, as one example, reservoir 42/44/46 iscircular, square, or rectangular in shape. However, any other shape orconfiguration is hereby contemplated for use. Furthermore, the reservoir42/44/46, and the microorganism growing apparatus 12, may be any sizewithout departing from the disclosure. The reservoir 42/44/46, and themicroorganism growing apparatus 12, may be manufactured to be smallenough to fit on a shelf for research purposes and the like, or largeenough to efficiently and effectively serve a large metropolitan city.Reservoir 42/44/46 may be formed of any type of reservoir 42/44/46configured to contain fluid 58/60/62 including, but not limited to, atrough system 86.

In one arrangement, as shown the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a first reservoir 42, among other components. In anotherarrangement, as shown, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprisesa first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44, among other components.In another arrangement, as shown, the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, and a thirdreservoir 46. Any number of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be utilized bythe system 10 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Forexample, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise one, two,three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more reservoirs42/44/46/88 without departing from the scope of the disclosure.Throughout the disclosure, reference to a reservoir 42/44/46/88 refersto a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, a third reservoir 46, ora fourth reservoir 88; unless the disclosure specifically states that itis referring to only one of the reservoirs 42/44/46/88.

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises amicroorganism growing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42 and asecond reservoir 44 wherein the first reservoir 42 is filled with afirst fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56, the first fluid 58 iscontrolled to have a first condition 64, the second reservoir 44 isfilled with a second fluid 60, the second fluid 60 is controlled to havea second condition 66, microorganisms 84 are grown using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12, the microorganisms 84 are exposed tothe first fluid 58 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to thefirst condition 64 and the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56from the first fluid 58, the microorganisms 84 are exposed to light 50and air 48 and the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second fluid 60wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second condition 66 andthe microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release the pollutant 56.

In another arrangement, for example, the system 10 comprises amicroorganism growing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42 and asecond reservoir 44 wherein the first reservoir 42 is filled with afirst fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56, the first fluid 58 iscontrolled to have a first condition 64, the second reservoir 44 isfilled with a second fluid 60, the second fluid 60 is controlled to havea second condition 66, microorganisms 84 are grown using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12, the microorganisms 84 are exposed tothe first fluid 58 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to thefirst condition 64 and the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56from the first fluid 58, the microorganisms 84 are exposed to light 50and air 48 and the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second fluid 60wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second condition 66 andthe microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release the pollutant 56.

Furthermore, in an alternative arrangement, the system 10 comprises amicroorganism growing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir 42 and asecond reservoir 44 wherein the first reservoir 42 is filled with afirst fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56, the first fluid 58 iscontrolled to have a first condition 64, the second reservoir 44 isfilled with a second fluid 60, the second fluid 60 is controlled to havea second condition 66, algae 52 is grown using the microorganism growingapparatus 12, the algae 52 is exposed to the first fluid 58 wherein thealgae 52 is exposed to the first condition 64 and the algae 52 uptakesthe pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58, the algae 52 is exposed tolight 50 and air 48 and the algae 52 is exposed to the second fluid 60wherein the algae 52 is exposed to the second condition 66 and the algae52 is stimulated to release the pollutant 56, then a third reservoir 46is provided, the third reservoir 46 is filled with a third fluid 62, thethird fluid 62 is controlled within the third reservoir 46 to have athird condition 68, and a portion of the algae biofilm 54 is submergedwithin the third fluid 62 of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposingthis portion of the algae biofilm 54 to the third condition 68 in orderto stimulate the algae 52 to release the pollutant 56.

In one arrangement, as shown, the first reservoir 42 is located at thebottom 22 of the microorganism growing apparatus 12. The first reservoir42 is designed to contain or hold the first fluid 58 which contains apollutant 56. In one arrangement, as one example, the at least onemoving belt 36 is moved through the microorganism growing apparatus 12wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is in a firstsubmerged position 70 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt36 is submerged within the first fluid 58 held within the firstreservoir 42 and the microorganisms 84 on the at least one moving belt36 are exposed to a first condition 64 within the first fluid 58 whereinthe microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58.Then the at least one moving belt 36 transitions to an exposed position76 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is not submergedwithin the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42, but isexposed to air 48 and light 50.

In another arrangement, as shown, the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44 wherein thefirst reservoir 42 is located at the bottom 22 of the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 and the first reservoir 42 is designed to containor hold the first fluid 58. Additionally, the second reservoir 44 islocated within or near the first reservoir 42 and the second reservoir44 is designed to contain or hold the second fluid 60. In thisarrangement, as one example, the at least one moving belt 36 is movedthrough the microorganism growing apparatus 12 wherein a portion of theat least one moving belt 36 is in a first submerged position 70 whereinthe at least one moving belt 36 is submerged within the first fluid 58held within the first reservoir 42, then to an exposed position 76wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is not submergedwithin the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42, but isexposed to air 48 and light 50. Then the at least one moving belt 36 isin a second submerged position 72 wherein the at least one moving belt36 is submerged within the second fluid 60 held within the secondreservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to a secondcondition 66 within the second fluid 60 and the microorganisms 84 arestimulated to release a pollutant 56.

In one arrangement, as another example, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, anda third reservoir 46 wherein the first reservoir 42 is located at thebottom 22 of the microorganism growing apparatus 12 and the firstreservoir 42 is designed to contain or hold the first fluid 58 whichcontains a pollutant 56. Additionally, the second reservoir 44 and thethird reservoir 46 are located within or near the first reservoir 42 andthe second reservoir 44 is designed to contain or hold the second fluid60 and the third reservoir 46 is designed to contain or hold the thirdfluid 62. In this arrangement, as one example, the at least one movingbelt 36 is moved through the microorganism growing apparatus 12 whereina portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is in a first submergedposition 70 wherein the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged withinthe first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42 and themicroorganisms 84 on the at least one moving belt 36 are exposed to afirst condition 64 wherein the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56from the first fluid 58, then to an exposed position 76 wherein aportion of the at least one moving belt 36 is not submerged within thefirst fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42, but is exposed to air48 and light 50. Then, the at least one moving belt 36 is in a secondsubmerged position 72 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt36 is submerged within the second fluid 60 held within the secondreservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms 84 on the at least one movingbelt 36 are exposed to a second condition 66 within the second fluid 60and the microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release the pollutant 56.Furthermore, the at least one moving belt 36 is in a third submergedposition 74 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 issubmerged within the third fluid 62 held within the third reservoir 46wherein the microorganisms 84 on the at least one moving belt 36 areexposed to a third condition 68 within the third fluid 62 and themicroorganisms 84 are stimulated to release the pollutant 56.

In one arrangement, as one example, reservoir 42/44/46 may also includea pump 82 which is configured to circulate fluid 58/60/62 withinreservoir 42/44/46. The circulation of the fluid 58/60/62 withinreservoir 42/44/46 may improve the growth of the microorganisms 84 andthe efficiency of the system 10. As described in more detail below, pump82 may be any type of pump 82 such as a paddlewheel.

Additionally, it is important to note, while the system 10 may compriseany number of reservoirs 42/44/46, the at least one moving belt 36 isnot required to be submerged within each reservoir 42/44/46. Forexample, in one arrangement, the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, and a thirdreservoir 46 wherein the first reservoir 42 is located at the bottom 22of the microorganism growing apparatus 12 and the first reservoir 42 isdesigned to contain or hold the first fluid 58 which contains apollutant 56. Additionally, the second reservoir 44 and the thirdreservoir 46 are located within or near the first reservoir 42 and thesecond reservoir 44 is designed to contain or hold the second fluid 60and the third reservoir 46 is designed to contain or hold the thirdfluid 62. In this arrangement, as one example, the at least one movingbelt 36 is moved through the microorganism growing apparatus 12 whereina portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is in a first submergedposition 70 wherein the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged withinthe first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42 and themicroorganisms 84 on the at least one moving belt 36 is exposed to afirst condition 64 wherein the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56from the first fluid 58, then to an exposed position 76 wherein aportion of the at least one moving belt 36 is not submerged within thefirst fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42, but is exposed to air48 and light 50. Then, the at least one moving belt 36 skips over thesecond reservoir 44 bypassing the second submerged position 72 whereinthe at least one moving belt 36 is not submerged within the second fluid60. Instead, the at least one moving belt 36 moves to a third submergedposition 74 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 issubmerged within the third fluid 62 held within the third reservoir 46wherein the algae 52 on the at least one moving belt 36 is exposed to athird condition 68 within the third fluid 62 and the microorganisms 84are stimulated to release the pollutant 56.

Furthermore, while a reservoir 42/44/46/88 may be filled with a fluid58/60/62, in an alternative arrangement, any reservoir 42/44/46/88 maybe left dry/empty or drained of the fluid 58/60/62 in order to becomedry/empty. Also, a dry/empty reservoir 42/44/46/88 may still have acondition in order to stimulate the microorganisms 84.

Therefore, in an alternative arrangement, the system 10 comprises thesteps of: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64; allowing the second reservoir 44 to remain dry/empty by not fillingthe second reservoir 44 with a fluid or by draining the second reservoir44 of the fluid contained therein; controlling the second reservoir 44to have a second condition 66; growing microorganisms 84 using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12; exposing the microorganisms 84 tothe first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 wherein themicroorganisms 84 are exposed to the first condition 64 and themicroorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58;exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50 and air 48; and exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second reservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms84 are exposed to the second condition 66 and the microorganisms 84 arestimulated to release the pollutant 56. This arrangement of the system10 may also comprise the steps of: providing a third reservoir 46wherein the third reservoir 46 may be filled with a fluid 62 and thefluid 62 is controlled to have a third condition 68 and a portion of themicroorganisms 84 are submerged within the fluid 62 of the thirdreservoir 46 thereby exposing this portion of the microorganisms 84 tothe third condition 68. Any number of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 are herebycontemplated for use and any of the reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be filledwith a fluid 58/60/62 or left dry/empty and then manipulated to have acondition 64/66/68 utilized to stimulate the microorganisms 84. In onearrangement, one or more of the reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be dry/emptyand contain infrared heat as the condition 64/66/68 in order to causefluid to drip from the at least moving belt 36 into the reservoir42/44/46/88 allowing the dry/empty reservoir(s) 42/44/46/88 to functionas a drip tank and a collection reservoir 42/44/46/88.

Motor

Motor 26 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design. Motor 26 isany form of a motor that converts electrical energy to mechanical energyand provides rotation and torque. In one arrangement, as one example,the motor 26 can include a gear system 30 that is capable of driving theat least one drive shaft 28 wherein the at least one drive shaft 28rotates the at least one moving belt 36. The rotating of the at leastone moving belt 36 allows the at least one moving belt 36 to be in asubmerged position 70/72/74 wherein a portion of the at least one movingbelt 36 is submerged within the fluid 58/60/62 held within the reservoir42/44/46/88, and an exposed position 76 wherein a portion of the atleast one moving belt 36 is not submerged within the fluid 58/60/62 heldwithin the reservoir 42/44/46/88.

Drive Shaft

The microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises at least one driveshaft 28 which is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design. In onearrangement, as one example, the at least one drive shaft 28 extendsfrom one side 18 of the microorganism growing apparatus 12 to theopposing side 18 wherein the at least one moving belt 36 is placed overthe at least one drive shaft 28 allowing for the at least one driveshaft 28 to rotate and move the at least one moving belt 36 causing theat least one moving belt 36 to move between a submerged position70/72/74 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 issubmerged within the fluid 58/60/62 held within the reservoir42/44/46/88, and an exposed position 76 wherein a portion of the atleast one moving belt 36 is not submerged within the fluid 58/60/62 heldwithin the reservoir 42/44/46/88.

Gear System

The microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises a gear system 30, inaddition to other components. In one arrangement, as one example, thegear system 30 may be a plurality of gear systems 30. Any number of gearsystems 30 may be used without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. For example, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 maycomprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, ormore gear systems 30 without departing from the scope of the disclosure.Furthermore, the gear system 30 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design.

The gear system 30 may be comprised of any form of a gear system 30including, but not limited to, a pulley system, that is configured todirect power to the microorganism growing apparatus 12. The gear system30 is configured to drive the at least one drive shaft 28 wherein the atleast one drive shaft 28 rotates the at least one moving belt 36. Therotating of the at least one moving belt 36 allows the at least onemoving belt 36 to be in a submerged position 70/72/74 wherein a portionof the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged within the fluid58/60/62 held within the reservoir 42/44/46/88, and an exposed position76 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is not submergedwithin the fluid 58/60/62 held within the reservoir 42/44/46/88.

Rollers

The microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise, in addition toother components, a plurality of rollers 32. The plurality of rollers 32is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design. In one arrangement,as one example, the plurality of rollers 32 are cylindrical in shape.However, any other shape or configuration is hereby contemplated foruse. Additionally, in one arrangement, as an example, one, two, three,four, five, or more rollers 32 may be used. Any number of rollers 32 maybe used without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The plurality of rollers 32 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to provide guidance, direction, and support tothe at least one moving belt 32 as the at least one moving belt 36 movesthrough the microorganism growing apparatus 12.

Pump

The microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise, in addition toother components, a pump 82. The pump 82 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design. Pump 82 may be formed of any size without departingfrom the disclosure.

Pump 82 is configured to circulate fluid 58 within the first reservoir42 which may improve the growth of algae 52 and the efficiency of thesystem 10. Pump 82 can be any type of pump 82 including, but not limitedto, an electric pump, a wheel, a paddlewheel or any other type of pump82 that is configured to circulate fluid 58.

Mechanized Harvesting System

The microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise, in addition toother components, a mechanized harvesting system 34. The mechanizedharvesting system 34 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design.The mechanized harvesting system 34 comprises at least one moving belt36, a harvesting blade 38, and a harvesting reservoir 40. The mechanizedharvesting system 34 may be triangular in shape in order to efficientlymove the at least one belt 36 through the microorganism growingapparatus 12 wherein the at least moving belt 36 is transitioned betweena first submerged position 70, wherein a portion of the at least onemoving belt 36 is submerged within the first fluid 58 held within thefirst reservoir 42, and an exposed position 76, wherein a portion of theat least one moving belt 36 is not submerged within the first fluid 58held within the first reservoir 42. As a result, the portion of the atleast one moving belt 36 that is not submerged within the first fluid 58held within the first reservoir 42 is exposed to air (a CO₂-rich gaseousphase) 48 and light 50 (a “sunlight capture” part of the system 10).

Belt

As provided above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise,among other components, a mechanized harvesting system 34. Themechanized harvesting system 34 comprises at least one moving belt 36,among other components. The at least one moving belt 36 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design. The at least one moving belt 36 may beformed of any material without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. The at least one belt 36 may be formed of any type ofmaterial, including, but not limited to, plastic, metal, non-metalmaterials, rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or any other type ofmaterial. Furthermore, the at least one moving belt 36 may be referredto as a belt 36, at least one moving belt 36, at least one belt 36, etc.without departing from the disclosure.

In one arrangement, as one example, the at least one belt 36 iscontrolled by the motor 26, the gear system 30 and the at least onedrive shaft 28 wherein the at least one drive shaft 28 rotates the atleast one moving belt 36. The rotation of the at least one moving belt36 allows the at least one moving belt 36 to move through themicroorganism growing apparatus 12 wherein the at least one moving belt36 is transitioned between a first submerged position 70 wherein aportion of the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged within the firstfluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42, and then to an exposedposition 76 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is notsubmerged within the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42.In another arrangement, the at least one moving belt 36 moves throughthe microorganism growing apparatus 12 wherein the at least one movingbelt 36 is transitioned between a first submerged position 70 wherein aportion a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged withinthe first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42, then to anexposed position 76 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36is not submerged within the first fluid 58 held within the firstreservoir 42, then the at least one moving belt 36 moves to a secondsubmerged position 72 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt36 is submerged within the second fluid 60 held within the secondreservoir 44, then the at least one moving belt 36 moves to a thirdsubmerged position 74 wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt36 is submerged within the third fluid 62 held within the thirdreservoir 46.

The at least one moving belt 36 may move through the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 in any type of configuration or movement withoutdeparting from the scope of the disclosure. In one arrangement, as oneexample, the at least one belt 36 moves through the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 in a continuous manner or loop between the firstsubmerged position 70, an exposed position 76, the second submergedposition 72, an exposed position 76, and a third submerged position 74.In an alternative arrangement, the at least one belt 36 moves in aserpentine manner between a submerged position 70/72/74 and an exposedposition 76. Furthermore, the at least one moving belt 36 may movethrough the microorganism growing apparatus 12 in any direction orconfiguration, including, but not limited to, horizontal, vertical,downward, upward, etc. without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. In one arrangement, as shown, the at least one moving belt36 moves through the microorganism growing apparatus 12 in asubstantially vertical configuration.

As stated above, the at least one moving belt 36 may comprise any typeof microorganism 84 or element without departing from the disclosure. Inone embodiment, algae 52 is grown on the at least one moving belt 36. Inanother arrangement, as one example, algae 52 is grown on the at leastone moving belt 36 and the at least one moving belt 36 further comprisesbacteria and/or fungi. In an alternative arrangement, the at least onemoving belt 36 comprises only one type of microorganism 84 such as algae52, bacteria, or fungi. However, in another arrangement, the at leastone moving belt 36 comprises any combination of varying types ofmicroorganisms 84 such as algae 52, bacteria, or fungi.

Coating

As provided above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise,among other components, a mechanized harvesting system 34. Themechanized harvesting system 34 comprises at least one moving belt 36,among other components. The at least one moving belt 36 may comprise acoating on the at least one moving belt 36 that is capable of bindingpollutants 56. The coating may be comprised of any type of material,including, but not limited to, coatings that create temporary ionic,covalent, polar, or hydrogen bonds with a pollutant, or any other typeof material. In one arrangement, as one example, the at least one movingbelt 36 comprises a Lanthanum coating. Furthermore, any amount, volume,or thickness of the coating may be utilized on the at least one movingbelt 36 without departing from the disclosure.

In one arrangement, as one example, the at least one moving belt 36comprises a coating that is capable of binding pollutants 56 as the atleast one moving belt 36 cycles through the microorganism growingapparatus 12. In this arrangement, the at least one moving belt 36 movesto a first submerged position 70 wherein a portion of the at least onemoving belt 36 is submerged within the first fluid 58 held within thefirst reservoir 42 exposing the coating to be exposed to the firstcondition 64 and causing the coating to uptake the pollutants 56; thenthe at least one moving belt 36 moves to a second submerged position 72wherein a portion of the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged withinthe second fluid 60 held within the second reservoir 44 exposing thecoating to the second condition 66 and causing the coating to releasethe pollutants 56.

In one arrangement, as one example, the at least one moving belt 36comprises microorganisms 84 and a coating. In another arrangement, theat least one moving belt 36 comprises microorganisms 84 and the at leastone moving belt 36 does not comprise a coating. Furthermore, in yetanother arrangement, the at least one moving belt 36 comprises a coatingbut the at least one moving belt 36 does not comprise microorganisms 84.For clarification, the at least one moving belt 36 may comprise anycombination of microorganisms 84 and/or coating without departing fromthe disclosure.

Harvesting Blade

As the at least one moving belt 36 moves through the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12, microorganisms 84 grow on the at least one movingbelt 36. The microorganisms 84 that are produced must be harvested orremoved from the at least one moving belt 36. The microorganisms 84 maybe removed from the at least one moving belt 36 by utilizing any methodwithout departing from the scope of the disclosure. One method ofharvesting the microorganisms 84 that are produced is to scrape themicroorganisms 84 off of the at least one moving belt 36. In onearrangement, the system 10 comprises the step of harvesting themicroorganisms 84 by positioning a harvesting blade 38 along the atleast one moving belt 36 in order to scrape the microorganisms 84 off ofthe at least one moving belt 36. Therefore, the mechanized harvestingsystem 34 comprises a harvesting blade 38.

In one arrangement, as one example, as the at least one moving belt 36moves through the microorganism growing apparatus 12, algae 52 grows ina biofilm 54 which forms on the at least one moving belt 36. The algae52 that is produced must be harvested or removed from the at least onemoving belt 36. The algae 52 may be harvested or removed from the atleast one moving belt 36 by utilizing any method without departing fromthe scope of the disclosure. One method of harvesting the algae 52 thatis produced is to scrape the algae 52 off of the at least one movingbelt 36. In one arrangement, the system 10 comprises the step ofharvesting the algae 52 by positioning a harvesting blade 38 along theat least one moving belt 36 in order to scrape the algae 52 off of theat least one moving belt 36.

The harvesting blade 38 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign. The harvesting blade 38 may be formed of any material that issuitable for harvesting or removing microorganisms 84 from the at leastone moving belt 36, such as a squeegee, a piece of plastic, a piece ofrubber, a piece of metal, or the like. The harvesting blade 38 may beformed of any material without departing from the scope of thedisclosure.

Harvesting Reservoir

As stated above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise, inaddition to other components, a mechanized harvesting system 34. Themechanized harvesting system 34 may comprise, among other components, aharvesting reservoir 40. The harvesting reservoir 40 may be formed ofany suitable size, shape, and design. Furthermore, the harvestingreservoir 40 may be formed of any material that is suitable foraccepting and storing microorganisms 84. The harvesting reservoir 40 maybe formed of any material without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. The harvesting reservoir 40 may be connected to theharvesting blade 38 or positioned next to the harvesting blade 38 and isconfigured to receive the microorganisms 84 as the microorganisms 84 areharvested from the at least one moving belt 36.

Fluid

As stated above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises atleast one fluid 58/60/62, among other components. The fluid 58/60/62 maybe any type of fluid 58/60/62, including, but not limited to, water,wastewater, effluent, and the like. In one arrangement, as one example,the fluid 58/60/62 is effluent from a feed manufacturer which contains ahigh concentration of pollutants 56 including, but not limited to, N, P,K, C, toxic metals, salts, pharmaceuticals, any type of PPCPs, orhormones. In another arrangement, as one example, the fluid 58/60/62 ismunicipal water which contains a high concentration of pollutants 56including, but not limited to, N, P, K, C, toxic metals, salts,pharmaceuticals, any type of PPCPs, or hormones.

In one arrangement, as shown the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a first reservoir 42, among other components, which contains afirst fluid 58. In another arrangement, as shown, the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42 and a secondreservoir 44, among other components, wherein the first reservoir 42contains a first fluid 58 and the second reservoir 44 contains a secondfluid 60. In another arrangement, as shown, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, anda third reservoir 46, among other components, wherein the firstreservoir 42 contains a first fluid 58, the second reservoir 44 containsa second fluid 60 and the third reservoir 46 contains a third fluid 62.Any number of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be utilized by the system 10without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, themicroorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise one, two, three, four,five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more reservoirs 42/44/46/88without departing from the scope of the disclosure. As a result, anynumber of fluids 58/60/62 may be utilized by the system 10 withoutdeparting from the scope of the disclosure. Throughout the disclosure,reference to a fluid 58/60/62 refers to a first fluid 58, a second fluid60, or a third fluid 62, unless the disclosure specifically states thatit is referring to only a specific fluid 58/60/62.

In one arrangement, as one example, the microorganism growing apparatus12 comprises a first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44 wherein thefirst reservoir 42 is filled with a first fluid 58 that contains apollutant 56 and the first fluid 58 is controlled to have a firstcondition 64. Furthermore, the second reservoir 44 is filled with asecond fluid 60 wherein the second fluid 60 is controlled to have asecond condition 66. In this arrangement, microorganisms 84 are grownusing the microorganism growing apparatus 12 wherein the microorganisms84 are exposed to the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the first condition 64 andthe microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58.Furthermore, the microorganisms 84 are exposed to light 50 and air 48and then the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second fluid 60wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second condition 66 andthe microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release the pollutant 56. Inthis arrangement, the microorganisms 84 may be comprised of algae 52.Furthermore, in this arrangement, the algae 52 may grow in an algaebiofilm 54 on the at least one moving belt 36 which moves through themicroorganism growing apparatus 12.

In another arrangement, as one example, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, anda third reservoir 46 wherein the first reservoir 42 is filled with afirst fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56 and the first fluid 58 iscontrolled to have a first condition 64. The second reservoir 44 isfilled with a second fluid 60 wherein the second fluid 60 is controlledto have a second condition 66. The third reservoir 46 is filled with athird fluid 62 and the third fluid 62 is controlled to have a thirdcondition 68. In this arrangement, microorganisms 84 are grown using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12. In this arrangement, themicroorganisms 84 are moved such that they are submerged within thefirst fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42 exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the first condition 64 wherein the microorganisms84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58 held within the firstreservoir 42; then the microorganisms 84 are moved such that it is in anexposed position 76 and it is exposed to air 48 and light 50; followingthe uptake of the pollutant 56, the microorganisms 84 are moved to asecond submerged position 72 within the second fluid 60 held within thesecond reservoir 44 exposing the microorganisms 84 to the secondcondition 66 and stimulating the microorganisms 84 to release thepollutant 56. Then the microorganisms 84 are moved to a third submergedposition 74 such that the microorganisms 84 are submerged within thethird fluid 62 held within the third reservoir 46 exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the third condition 68 and stimulating themicroorganisms 84 to release the pollutant 56. In this arrangement, themicroorganisms 84 may be comprised of algae 52. Furthermore, in thisarrangement, the algae 52 may grow in an algae biofilm 54 on the atleast one moving belt 36 which moves through the microorganism growingapparatus 12.

In one arrangement, as one example, the motor 26 includes a gear system30 that is capable of driving the at least one drive shaft 28 whereinthe at least one drive shaft 28 rotates the at least one moving belt 36.The rotation of the at least one moving belt 36 allows the at least onemoving belt 36 to be in a submerged position 70/72/74 wherein a portionof the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged within a fluid 58/60/62held within a reservoir 42/44/46. In one arrangement, as one example,microorganisms 84 are produced as the at least one moving belt 36 movesthrough the microorganism growing apparatus 12.

Conditions

As stated above, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises atleast one fluid 58/60/62, among other components, wherein the fluid58/60/62 is controlled to have a condition 64/66/68. The condition64/66/68 may be any type of condition 64/66/68 without departing fromthe scope of the disclosure. For example, the condition 64/66/68 may bean elevated temperature, an elevated temperature compared to anothercondition 64/66/68 used within the microorganism growing apparatus 12,an elevated temperature within the range of 30-90 degrees Celsius, anillumination using increased light intensity, infrared heat, exposure toa sorbent material, exposure to a phosphorous absorbing material,exposure to a fluid with a high concentration of biological oxygendemand, pH adjustment, adsorbents (such as activated carbon, Lanthanumsalts, etc.), strong artificial lighting (proton energy), among othertypes of conditions 64/66/68 that stimulate microorganisms 84 to releasea pollutant 56. The system 10 may comprise any number of reservoirs42/44/46/88, fluids 58/60/62, and conditions 64/66/68 without departingfrom the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the system 10 may compriseone, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or morereservoirs 42/44/46/88, fluids 58/60/62, and conditions 64/66/68 withoutdeparting from the scope of the disclosure.

In one arrangement, as one example, the microorganism growing apparatus12 comprises a first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44 wherein thefirst reservoir 42 is filled with a first fluid 58 and the first fluid58 is controlled to have a first condition 64 and the second reservoir44 is filled with a second fluid 60 and the second fluid 60 iscontrolled to have a second condition 66. In another arrangement, as oneexample, the microorganism growing apparatus 12 comprises a firstreservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, and a third reservoir 46 whereinthe first reservoir 42 is filled with a first fluid 58 and the firstfluid 58 is controlled to have a first condition 64, the secondreservoir 44 is filled with a second fluid 60 and the second fluid 60 iscontrolled to have a second condition 66, and the third reservoir 46 isfilled with a third fluid 62 and the third fluid 62 is controlled tohave a third condition 68.

Any number of reservoirs 42/44/46/88 may be utilized by the system 10without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, themicroorganism growing apparatus 12 may comprise one, two, three, four,five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more reservoirs 42/44/46/88without departing from the scope of the disclosure. As a result, anynumber of fluids 58/60/62 and conditions 64/66/68 may be utilized by thesystem 10 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Throughoutthe disclosure, reference to a condition 64/66/68 refers to a firstcondition 64, a second condition 66, or a third condition 68, unless thedisclosure specifically states that it is referring to only a specificcondition 64/66/68.

In one arrangement, as shown the microorganism growing apparatus 12comprises a first reservoir 42, among other components, which contains afirst fluid 58 wherein the first fluid 58 is controlled to have a firstcondition 64. In another arrangement, as shown, the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42 and a secondreservoir 44, among other components, wherein the first reservoir 42contains a first fluid 58 and the second reservoir 44 contains a secondfluid 60 wherein the first fluid 58 is controlled to have a firstcondition 64 and the second fluid 60 is controlled to have a secondcondition 66. In another arrangement, as shown, the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir44, and a third reservoir 46, among other components, wherein the firstreservoir 42 contains a first fluid 58 and the first fluid 58 iscontrolled to have a first condition 64, the second reservoir 44contains a second fluid 60 and the second fluid 60 is controlled to havea second condition 66, and the third reservoir 46 contains a third fluid62 and the third fluid 62 is controlled to have a third condition 68.

In one arrangement, as one example, the microorganism growing apparatus12 comprises a first reservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44 wherein thefirst reservoir 42 is filled with a first fluid 58 that contains apollutant 56 and the first fluid 58 is controlled to have a firstcondition 64. Furthermore, the second reservoir 44 is filled with asecond fluid 60 wherein the second fluid 60 is controlled to have asecond condition 66. In this arrangement, microorganisms 84 are grownusing the microorganism growing apparatus 12 wherein the microorganisms84 are exposed to the first fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the first condition 64 andthe microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 from the first fluid 58.Furthermore, the microorganisms 84 are exposed to light 50 and air 48and then the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second fluid 60wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the second condition 66 andthe microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release the pollutant 56. Inthis arrangement, the microorganisms 84 may be comprised of algae 52.Furthermore, in this arrangement, the algae 52 may grow in an algaebiofilm 54.

In another arrangement, as one example, the microorganism growingapparatus 12 comprises a first reservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, anda third reservoir 46 wherein the first reservoir 42 is filled with afirst fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56 and the first fluid 58 iscontrolled to have a first condition 64. The second reservoir 44 isfilled with a second fluid 60 wherein the second fluid 60 is controlledto have a second condition 66. The third reservoir 46 is filled with athird fluid 62 and the third fluid 62 is controlled to have a thirdcondition 68. In this arrangement, microorganisms 84 are grown using themicroorganism growing apparatus 12. In this arrangement, themicroorganisms 84 are moved to a first submerged position 70 such thatthe microorganisms 84 are submerged within the first fluid 58 heldwithin the first reservoir 42 exposing the microorganisms 84 to thefirst condition 64 wherein the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56from the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42; then themicroorganisms 84 are moved such that it is in an exposed position 76and it is exposed to air 48 and light 50; following the uptake of thepollutant 56, the microorganisms 84 are moved to a second submergedposition 72 within the second fluid 60 held within the second reservoir44 exposing the microorganisms 84 to the second condition 66 andstimulating the microorganisms 84 to release the pollutant 56. Then themicroorganisms 84 are moved to a third submerged position 74 such thatthe microorganisms 84 are submerged within the third fluid 62 heldwithin the third reservoir 46 exposing the microorganisms 84 to thethird condition 68 and stimulating the microorganisms 84 to release thepollutant 56. In this arrangement, the microorganisms 84 may becomprised of algae 52. Furthermore, in this arrangement, the algae 52may grow in an algae biofilm 54.

In one arrangement, as one example, the motor 26 includes a gear system30 that is capable of driving the at least one drive shaft 28 whereinthe at least one drive shaft 28 rotates the at least one moving belt 36.The rotation of the at least one moving belt 36 allows the at least onemoving belt 36 to be in a submerged position 70/72/74 wherein a portionof the at least one moving belt 36 is submerged within the fluid58/60/62 held within the reservoir 42/44/46/88. In one arrangement, asone example, microorganisms 84 are produced as the at least one movingbelt 36 moves through the microorganism growing apparatus 12.

In Operation

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises the stepsof: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44, filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56, controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64, filling the second reservoir 44 with a second fluid 60, controllingthe second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44 to have a secondcondition 66, growing microorganisms 84 using the microorganism growingapparatus 12, exposing the microorganisms 84 to light 50 and air 48, andexposing the microorganisms 84 to the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the secondcondition 66 and the microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release thepollutant 56. In one arrangement, the system 10 further comprises thestep of: following release of the pollutant 56, the microorganisms 84are then brought back to the first reservoir 42 to uptake additionalpollutants 56 and the process is repeated. Furthermore, in onearrangement, as one example, the system 10 further comprises the stepof: starving the microorganisms 84 of the pollutant 56 by exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second condition 66 thereby causing themicroorganisms 84 to consume increased amounts of the pollutant 56 fromthe first fluid 58 in the first reservoir 42. In one arrangement, as oneexample, the system 10 comprises concentrating the pollutant 56 withinthe second fluid 60 held within the second reservoir 44. In one example,the system 10 grows the microorganisms 84 on a belt 36 wherein the belt36 moves in a continuous manner through the reservoirs 42/44/46.

Furthermore, in one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 mayfurther comprise the steps of: providing a third reservoir 46, fillingthe third reservoir 46 with a third fluid 62, controlling the thirdfluid 62 within the third reservoir 46 to have a third condition 68, andsubmerging a portion of the belt 36 containing the microorganisms 84within the third fluid 62 of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposingthis portion of the microorganisms 84 to the third condition 68.

In one example, the system 10 further comprises the step of controllingthe temperature of the air 48 within the microorganism growing apparatus12, controlling the temperature of the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44, and/or controlling the light 50 within the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 in order to facilitate growth of the microorganisms84. Additionally, in one arrangement, as one example, the system 10further comprises the step of harvesting the microorganisms 84 and usingthe harvested microorganisms 84 as a foodstuff for human or non-humananimal consumption, a fertilizer, a bioplastic, and/or a biofuel.

In another arrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises thesteps of: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42with a first fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling thefirst fluid 58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition64; filling the second reservoir 44 with a second fluid 60; controllingthe second fluid 60 within the second reservoir 44 to have a secondcondition 66; growing microorganisms 84 using the microorganism growingapparatus 12; moving the microorganisms 84 such that a portion of themicroorganisms 84 are submerged within the first fluid 58 held withinthe first reservoir 42 exposing the microorganisms 84 to the firstcondition 64 wherein the microorganisms 84 uptake the pollutant 56 fromthe first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42; moving themicroorganisms 84 such that a portion of the microorganisms 84 areexposed to air 48 and light 50; and following the uptake of thepollutant 56, moving the microorganisms 84 such that a portion of themicroorganisms 84 are submerged within the second fluid 60 held withinthe second reservoir 44 exposing the microorganisms 84 to the secondcondition 66 and stimulating the microorganisms 84 to release thepollutant 56. In one arrangement, the system 10 further comprises thestep of: following release of the pollutant 56, the microorganisms 84are then brought back to the first reservoir 42 to uptake additionalpollutants 56 and the process is repeated. Furthermore, in onearrangement, as one example, the system 10 further comprises the stepof: starving the microorganisms 84 of the pollutant 56 by exposing themicroorganisms 84 to the second condition 66 thereby causing themicroorganisms 84 to consume increased amounts of the pollutant 56 fromthe first fluid 58 in the first reservoir 42. In one arrangement, as oneexample, the system 10 comprises concentrating the pollutant 56 withinthe second fluid 60 held within the second reservoir 44. In one example,the system 10 grows the microorganisms 84 on a belt 36 wherein the belt36 moves in a continuous manner through the reservoirs 42/44/46.

In one example, the system 10 further comprises the step of controllingthe temperature of the air 48 within the microorganism growing apparatus12, controlling the temperature of the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44, and/or controlling the light 50 within the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 in order to facilitate growth of the microorganisms84. Additionally, in one arrangement, as one example, the system 10further comprises the step of harvesting the microorganisms 84 and usingthe harvested microorganisms 84 as a foodstuff for human or non-humananimal consumption.

Furthermore, in one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 mayfurther comprise the steps of: providing a third reservoir 46, fillingthe third reservoir 46 with a third fluid 62, controlling the thirdfluid 62 within the third reservoir 46 to have a third condition 68, andsubmerging a portion of the microorganisms 84 within the third fluid 62of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposing this portion of themicroorganisms 84 to the third condition 68.

System 10 Comprising at Least One Belt 36 in Operation:

In another arrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises thesteps of: providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a firstreservoir 42, a second reservoir 44, and at least one moving belt 36;filling the first reservoir 42 with a first fluid 58 that has a highconcentration of the pollutant 56; controlling the first fluid 58 withinthe first reservoir 42 to have a first condition 64; filling the secondreservoir 44 with a second fluid 60; controlling the second fluid 60within the second reservoir 44 to have a second condition 66; moving theat least one belt 36 between a first submerged position 70, wherein aportion of the at least one belt 36 is submerged within the first fluid58 held within the first reservoir 42, and an exposed position 76,wherein a portion of the at least one belt 36 is not submerged withinthe first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42; exposing theportion of the at least one belt 36 in the exposed position 76 to air 48and light 50; growing microorganisms 84 on the at least one belt 36 asthe at least one belt 36 moves through the microorganism growingapparatus 12, wherein the microorganisms 84 consume the pollutant 56from the first fluid 58 held within the first reservoir 42 during thegrowing process; submerging a portion of the at least one belt 36 withinthe second fluid 60 of the second reservoir 44 thereby exposing thisportion of the at least one belt 36 to the second condition 66 therebystimulating the microorganisms 84 contained on this portion of the belt36 to release the pollutant 56. In one arrangement, the system 10further comprises the step of: following release of the pollutant 56,the microorganisms 84 are then brought back to the first reservoir 42 touptake additional pollutants 56 and the process is repeated.Furthermore, in one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 furthercomprises the step of: starving the microorganisms 84 of the pollutant56 by exposing the microorganisms 84 to the second condition 66 therebycausing the microorganisms 84 to consume increased amounts of thepollutant 56 from the first fluid 58 in the first reservoir 42. In onearrangement, as one example, the system 10 comprises concentrating thepollutant 56 within the second fluid 60 held within the second reservoir44. In one example, the system 10 grows the microorganisms 84 on a belt36 wherein the belt 36 moves in a continuous manner through thereservoirs 42/44/46. Furthermore, in one arrangement, the belt 36 movesin a continuous loop between the first submerged position 70 and thesecond submerged position 72. In another arrangement, the belt 36 movesin a serpentine manner between the first submerged position 70 and thesecond submerged position 72. In one arrangement, the at least one belt36 moves in a serpentine manner in a generally vertical manner therebyreducing the footprint of the microorganism growing apparatus 12.Additionally, in one arrangement, the at least one belt 36 continuouslypasses through the second reservoir 44. In another arrangement, the atleast one belt 36 only periodically passes through the second reservoir44.

In one example, the system 10 further comprises the step of controllingthe temperature of the air 48 within the microorganism growing apparatus12, controlling the temperature of the second fluid 60 within the secondreservoir 44, and/or controlling the light 50 within the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12 in order to facilitate growth of the microorganisms84. Additionally, in one arrangement, as one example, the system 10further comprises the step of harvesting the microorganisms 84 and usingthe harvested microorganisms 84 as a foodstuff for human or non-humananimal consumption, a fertilizer, a bioplastic, and/or a biofuel.

In one arrangement, as one example, the system 10 may further comprisethe steps of: providing a third reservoir 46, filling the thirdreservoir 46 with a third fluid 62, controlling the third fluid 62within the third reservoir 46 to have a third condition 68, andsubmerging a portion of the microorganisms 84 within the third fluid 62of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposing this portion of themicroorganisms 84 to the third condition 68.

Furthermore, in one arrangement, as an example, the system 10 furthercomprises the step of harvesting the microorganisms 84 by scraping ablade 38 along the at least one belt 36. Also, in one arrangement, thesystem 10 further comprises the step of harvesting the microorganisms 84and using the harvested microorganisms 84 as a foodstuff for human ornon-human animal consumption.

In an alternative arrangement, the system 10 comprises the steps of:providing a microorganism growing apparatus 12 having a first reservoir42 and a second reservoir 44; filling the first reservoir 42 with afirst fluid 58 that contains a pollutant 56; controlling the first fluid58 within the first reservoir 42 to have a first condition 64; allowingthe second reservoir 44 to be dry/empty by not filling the secondreservoir 44 with a fluid or by draining the second reservoir 44 of thefluid contained therein; controlling the second reservoir 44 to have asecond condition 66; growing microorganisms 84 using the microorganismgrowing apparatus 12; exposing the microorganisms 84 to the first fluid58 within the first reservoir 42 wherein the microorganisms 84 areexposed to the first condition 64 and the microorganisms 84 uptake thepollutant 56 from the first fluid 58; exposing the microorganisms 84 tolight 50 and air 48; and exposing the microorganisms 84 to the secondreservoir 44 wherein the microorganisms 84 are exposed to the secondcondition 66 and the microorganisms 84 are stimulated to release thepollutant 56. This arrangement of the system 10 may also comprise thesteps of: providing a third reservoir 46 wherein the third reservoir 46may be filled with a fluid 62 and the fluid 62 is controlled to have athird condition 68 and a portion of the microorganisms 84 are submergedwithin the fluid 62 of the third reservoir 46 thereby exposing thisportion of the microorganisms 84 to the third condition 68.

Additionally, the system 10 may comprise any configuration withoutdeparting from the disclosure including, but not limited to, anyconfiguration wherein microorganisms 84 are circulated throughoutreservoirs 42/44/46/88 in order to be exposed to fluids 58/60/62 andconditions 64/66/68 contained therein in order to uptake and release apollutant 56. Thus, in one arrangement, the system 10 comprises a firstreservoir 42 filled with a first fluid 58 and a second reservoir 44filled with a second fluid 60. In another arrangement, the system 10comprises a first reservoir 42 filled with a first fluid 58, a secondreservoir 44 which is dry/empty, and a third reservoir 46 which isfilled with a fluid 62 . In yet another arrangement, the system 10comprises a first reservoir 42 filled with a first fluid 58, a secondreservoir 44 filled with a second fluid 60, and a third reservoir 46which is dry/empty. In an alternative arrangement, the system 10comprises a first reservoir 42 which is filled with a first fluid 58, asecond reservoir 44 which is dry/empty, a third reservoir 46 which isfilled with a fluid 62, and a fourth reservoir 88 which is dry/empty. Inyet another alternative configuration, the system 10 comprises a firstreservoir 42 which is filled with a first fluid 58 and a secondreservoir 44 which is dry/empty and functions as a drip tank.

Benefits of System

The system 10 has many benefits and advantages including, but notlimited to, providing a method of using microorganisms 84 to remove apollutant 56 from a fluid 58 that is efficient; providing a method ofusing microorganisms 84 to remove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 that issimple in design; providing a method of using microorganisms 84 toremove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 that is inexpensive; providing amethod of using microorganisms 84 to remove a pollutant 56 from a fluid58, harvesting the microorganisms 84 , and using the microorganisms 84as a foodstuff for human consumption; providing a method of usingmicroorganisms 84 to remove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58, harvestingthe microorganisms 84 , and using the microorganisms 84 as a foodstufffor animal consumption; providing a method of using microorganisms 84 toremove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 that is capable of meeting currentpollutant 56 discharge limits; providing a method of usingmicroorganisms 84 to remove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 that has asmaller footprint than other biological systems; providing a method ofusing microorganisms 84 to efficiently and effectively remove apollutant 56 from effluent; providing a method of using microorganisms84 to remove a pollutant 56 from a fluid 58 that has a high pollutant 56removal rate. These and other benefits and advantages of the system 10are apparent from the specification and claims.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   10—A method of using algae to remove a pollutant from a fluid (“a    system”)-   12—Microorganism growing apparatus-   14—A front (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   16—A back (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   18—Opposing sides (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   20—A top (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   22—A bottom (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   24—A frame-   26—A motor (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   28—At least one drive shaft (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   30—A gear system (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   32—A plurality of rollers (of the microorganism growing apparatus)-   34—A mechanized harvesting system-   36—At least one moving belt (of the harvesting system)-   38—A harvesting blade (of the harvesting system)-   40—A harvesting reservoir (of the harvesting system)-   42—A first reservoir-   44—A second reservoir-   46—A third reservoir-   48—Air (a CO2-rich gaseous phase or an O2-rich gaseous phase)-   50—Light (a “sunlight capture” part)-   52—Algae-   54—An algae biofilm (a biofilm)-   56—A pollutant-   58—A first fluid-   60—A second fluid-   62—A third fluid-   64—A first condition-   66—A second condition-   68—A third condition-   70—A first submerged position-   72—A second submerged position-   74—A third submerged position-   76—An exposed position-   78—Chlorella algae-   80—Spirulina algae-   82—A pump-   84—Microorganisms-   86—Trough system-   88—Additional reservoirs (i.e., fourth reservoir, etc.)

What is claimed:
 1. A method of using algae to remove a pollutant from afluid, the steps comprising: Providing a microorganism growing apparatushaving a first reservoir and a second reservoir; Filling the firstreservoir with a first fluid that contains a pollutant; Controlling thefirst fluid within the first reservoir to have a first condition;Filling the second reservoir with a second fluid; Controlling the secondfluid within the second reservoir to have a second condition; Growingalgae using the microorganism growing apparatus; Exposing the algae tothe first fluid within the first reservoir wherein the algae is exposedto the first condition and the algae uptakes the pollutant from thefirst fluid; Exposing the algae to light and air; Exposing the algae tothe second fluid within the second reservoir wherein the algae isexposed to the second condition and the algae is stimulated to releasethe pollutant; and Further comprising controlling the temperature of theair within the microorganism growing apparatus.
 2. The method of claim1, further comprising following release of the pollutant, the algae isthen brought back to the first reservoir to uptake additionalpollutants.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprising at least onemoving belt.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising at least onemoving belt wherein the at least one moving belt comprises a coating. 5.The method of claim 1 further comprising at least one moving beltwherein the at least one moving belt moves in a continuous manner. 6.The method of claim 1 further comprising at least one moving beltwherein the at least one moving belt comprises a surface andmicroorganisms growing on its surface.
 7. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising at least one moving belt wherein the at least one moving beltcomprises algae, bacteria, fungi, or any combination of algae, bacteria,and fungi.
 8. The method of claim 1 wherein the pollutant is selectedfrom N, P, K, C, metals, salts, pharmaceuticals, a type of PPCPs, orhormones.
 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising starving thealgae of the pollutant by exposing the algae to the second conditionthereby causing the algae to consume increased amounts of the pollutantfrom the first fluid in the first reservoir.
 10. The method of claim 1,further comprising concentrating the pollutant within the second fluidheld within the second reservoir.
 11. The method of claim 1 wherein thesecond condition is an elevated temperature as compared to the firstcondition.
 12. The method of claim 1 wherein the second condition is anelevated temperature within the range of 30-90 degrees Celsius.
 13. Themethod of claim 1 wherein the second condition is an illumination usingincreased light intensity.
 14. The method of claim 1 wherein the secondcondition is exposure to a sorbent material.
 15. The method of claim 1wherein the second condition is exposure to a phosphorous absorbingmaterial.
 16. The method of claim 1, further comprising controlling thetemperature of the second fluid within the second reservoir.
 17. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising controlling the light within themicroorganism growing apparatus.
 18. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising the step of harvesting the algae.
 19. The method of claim 1,further comprising the step of harvesting the algae and using theharvested algae as a foodstuff for human or non-human animalconsumption, a fertilizer, a bioplastic, or a biofuel.
 20. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising the steps of: Providing a third reservoir;Filling the third reservoir with a third fluid; Controlling the thirdfluid within the third reservoir to have a third condition; Submerging aportion of the algae within the third fluid of the third reservoirthereby exposing this portion of the algae to the third condition.
 21. Amethod of using algae to remove a pollutant from a fluid, the stepscomprising: Providing a microorganism growing apparatus having a firstreservoir, a second reservoir, and at least one moving belt; Filling thefirst reservoir with a first fluid that has a high concentration of thepollutant; Controlling the first fluid within the first reservoir tohave a first condition; Filling the second reservoir with a secondfluid; Controlling the second fluid within the second reservoir to havea second condition; Moving the at least one belt between a firstsubmerged position, wherein a portion of the at least one belt issubmerged within the first fluid held within the first reservoir, and anexposed position, wherein a portion of the at least one belt is notsubmerged within the first fluid held within the first reservoir;Exposing the portion of the at least one belt in the exposed position toair and light; Growing algae on the at least one belt as the at leastone belt moves through the microorganism growing apparatus, wherein thealgae consumes the pollutant from the first fluid held within the firstreservoir during the growing process; Submerging a portion of the atleast one belt within the second fluid of the second reservoir therebyexposing this portion of the at least one belt to the second conditionthereby stimulating the algae contained on this portion of the belt torelease the pollutant.